Bodrum was originally a small sleepy fishing town and is now one of the most stylish areas of the Turkish Riviera. The white-washed houses dressed with bougainvillea, climb in tiers upwards to a vantage point that overlooks a stunning blue bay of turquoise waters to which stands the medieval castle at its entrance.

This is a very popular area and is Turkey’s gateway to world tourism with many different cultures, religions and languages co-existing together. Tourism plays a major role here and the population swells from around 50,000 in the low winter season to around half a million in the height of the summer months. There is a great choice of bars, restaurants, shops and discos in and around the bay area that provide a lively and busy atmosphere for all to enjoy. For a more relaxing and peaceful evening, check out the tavernas and restaurants in the outlying areas.

Bodrum nightlife bustles away until the crack of dawn, with many of the shops and boutiques open till midnight, which is probably one of the better times to shop as the temperatures drop making it feel a lot more comfortable. Bodrum is home to a wide variety of bars that appeal to all tastes. Friendly marina cafes that boast spectacular views of the illuminated castle nestle neatly amongst busy, lively street-side bars playing live music. There are also a number of Turkish folk music and jazz clubs offering live music too. However, the most popular after dinner experience is simply to mingle amongst the diverse selection of locals and tourists and be seen! You can leisurely wander the streets late at night with a peaceful stroll and maybe stop for a warm drink or perhaps something stronger if you would prefer.

A truly unique aspect of Bodrum, in addition to the energetic leisure opportunities available during the day and the thriving nightlife, is the amount of outstanding tranquil bays, beaches and villages that are here to explore. There is no other area of the Turkish coast that provides you with the chance to experience the traditional Turkish way of life just a stones throw from the hustle and bustle of a thriving modern resort. There are many different ways to explore this area, none more enjoyable than on a regular daily boat trip from Bodrum Harbour.